What is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty case study: nasal bridge reduction, tip rotation, chin implant to balance nasal/facial proportions.
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure with the goal of aesthetic changes and/or functional improvements. Aesthetic rhinoplasty focuses on external appearance — refining the nasal bridge, reshaping the tip, narrowing the nostrils, or correcting asymmetry — to create facial balance and harmony. Functional rhinoplasty addresses breathing issues caused by structural problems such as a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, or collapsed nasal valves. Sometimes functional goals are often performed alongside aesthetic changes to improve both form and function.
I typically perform rhinoplasty using either an external (open) approach, involving a small incision across the columella — the strip of tissue between the nostrils — to expose the underlying structures. The external approach provides superb visualization of the nasal framework, allowing access to make detailed and precise alteration of the cartilage and bone to achieve the planned outcome.
Altering the cartilage of the nasal tip and the bony/cartilaginous components of the nasal bridge is central to producing the external result. Tip modification may include reshaping, trimming, suturing, or grafting the lower lateral cartilages to refine projection, rotation, and definition. Bridge adjustments can involve rasping, shaving, osteotomies (controlled fractures) of the nasal bones, or placement of cartilage grafts to smooth humps or augment deficient dorsums. These manipulations work together to create the desired external appearance while maintaining or improving nasal support.
Because every face and airway is unique, rhinoplasty uses multiple techniques that are customized to the individual patient. I take into account skin thickness, cartilage strength, facial proportions, nasal airway function, and the patient’s aesthetic goals to select the appropriate combination of maneuvers. Whether the plan emphasizes subtle refinement or significant reconstruction, the individualized approach aims to produce a natural-looking result that respects both cosmetic desires and functional needs.
